It is said by the broadcaster that Everton submitted an £18million bid for Kone more than a week ago and that discussions were being made for the centre-back to complete a move to Goodison Park, although a deal could not be thrashed out by the various parties.

Everton, who have already signed Wales skipper Ashley Williams from Swansea this week, are not the only admirers of the former Lorient player, with Chelsea also reportedly among the potential suitors monitoring the situation.

The Paris-born defender’s future at Sunderland started to look in doubt after Sam Allardyce’s exit from the club.

It is understood that the now England boss promised Kone a new contract if the Wearside club remained in the Premier league.

The defender ensured that the Black Cats remained in England’s top-flight, but David Moyes is believed to be unsure whether to grant Kone a pay rise.

Kone has four-years left on his current Sunderland contract and he starred in 15 games last season after joining in January ensuring they escaped from the clutches of relegation at the expense of their rivals Newcastle.